In January, “U.S. News & World Report,” an American magazine offering current affairs analysis, announced its “2020 Best Countries Ranking.” This ranking is based on an examination of 57 articles divided into nine categories, which include quality of life and citizens’ rights. According to the announcement, out of 73 countries, Japan was ranked third after Switzerland and Canada, and was especially highly regarded for its enterprising citizens. In the ranking of “power,” including the country’s global influence, Japan was ranked seventh, and was deemed to have strong economic and political alliances.